Theodore's expression hardened immediately, his protective instincts flaring up. He assumed that Gina had done something to upset Bella. "Did she do something to you? Tell me, and I swear I'll make her pay."
Bella quickly shook her head, trying to dispel the anger she could feel radiating from him. "No, it's not that. I've just learned that She is also taking part in the fashion show."
Her mind drifted to another matter that had been bothering her since her meeting with Gina.
Theodore's concern shifted to curiosity. "Does that bother you?" he asked, wondering if Bella felt uneasy about competing against Gina.
Bella shook her head in an attempt to dispel his anger. "I am not thinking about her," she said. "It's something else…something that's been on my mind since our meeting."
"And what is it?" Theodore waited, his eyes searching hers for answers.